Sunny, progressive California has often led the way in solar energy. As early as 1998, the state offered rebates for small solar energy systems. In 2004, Governor Schwarzenegger launched the Million Solar Roofs Program, while 2007 saw the inauguration of the Go Solar California initiative which included new solar incentive programs. As a part of this campaign, the government planned to attract solar users with an influx of $3.3 billion in financial incentives, to go towards the installation of 3000MW of solar energy. The first rebates came into effect in January 2007; since then over 12,000 applications have been made. However, it seems many of those who have qualified for the incentives have failed to begin installation within the stipulated twelve months, thus forfeiting the funding. The rebate incentives are meant to decrease as time passes, so those who reapply or simply apply later will receive fewer subsidies.
Additionally, studies point to a significant percentage of the rebates going to the well-heeled end of the economic spectrum. Solar energy isn’t exactly known for its Walmart style slash down pricing; it is expensive and even with the rebates, many still can’t afford it. The sun shouldn’t remain a privilege of moguls and starlets alone. However, governmental red tape and simple miscalculations have left many in the dark. The question we should ask is, ‘’who really owns the sun?’’
